Day 3: Climb to Machame Camp

MOUNTAIN ROUTE OVERVIEW

Our group will start climbing after registering in the National Park’s Climber Log and eating lunch. They’ll start hiking on a forest road through the rain forest – which is why it’s wet and humid climate where they start climbing. To the right and left of the road are Mount Kilimanjaro’s giant red germs and impatiens. The path will get narrower and steeper as it winds through the rainforest. After another hour of hiking, the landscape will start changing as they enter the moorland zone and approach their first camp. Upon arriving at camp, porters will welcome them with a tent that’s already pitched and hot tea with biscuits. After resting, they’ll debrief about the following day’s climb and eat dinner. If the weather is good, they’ll see a beautiful sunset and catch a glimpse of the first snow-capped peak of Kibo!!

MOUNTAIN ROUTE STATS

Starting elevation 6,000 feet

Ending elevation 9,900 feet

Elevation gain 3,900 feet

Distance hiked 6 miles

Average hiking time 6 to 7 hours

What a day! We left the hotel covered in prayer by Papa Deo and made the drive to the Kilimanjaro gate. We started climbing after a delicious lunch set for us and a group picture at the gate. As we set out on the trail, monkeys wished us well. We were humbled each time porters would pass by us with gear, chairs, and even eggs attached to the outside of a pack. Two of our guides, John Simon and Gabriel, set the pace, encouraged us, helped with gaiters, poles, and camelbaks, reminded us to drink water, and encouraged us some more. We hiked through a vibrant green and lush rainforest for several hours until we arrived at Macheme Camp. Our group of 8 climbers is quickly bonding as we tell stories, share life experiences, and laugh a lot. We were welcomed to camp by our incredible team of porters who had already set up tents, prepared hot tea and chocolate, and the best popcorn we've ever had. We reflected on the day as we shared a meal together and learned what tomorrow will hold. Today I was reminded of the Trinity as Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. We marveled at the beauty of God's handiwork and creativity through the rainforest. We were sustained for the long hike with the Holy Spirit as our friend. And we are reminded that we belong to Jesus to whom we give thanks and praise for this first day on Mt. Kilimanjaro. I am filled with gratitude for Drew and his team, our guides and porters, and my fellow hikers. Our legs may be tired, but our hearts are full.

Pamoja, pamoja- together, together.

Journal by Laura Jensen

Nina Barnett